“Stress is a silent illness” (Doctor Hobel). Over the years, stress has played a major role in the lives of a vast majority of people in the United States. When you think about it, it seems extremely surprising how many people actually suffer from stress in each individual's life. People don't think about the reasons for the feelings and emotions they experience. There are different types of stress, and stress can have far-reaching effects on a person. Each person also deals with stress differently. Some can handle more than others because each person's body works differently. Stress has also been said to cause people to act abnormally (Dr. David Posen). They often do not act as they usually would when stressed, as they would if they were not stressed. Often, self-control can fail when individuals are stressed, which can cause them to turn to addiction, abuse, or even engage in self-destructive behavior. Stress is a huge problem in our country; the one who is underestimated. Stress is a normal physical response to events that make us feel threatened or disrupt our balance in some way. It comes naturally to us, when we need it. When working properly, it helps one stay focused, energetic and alert. In emergency situations, stress can save lives; as with the fight-to-flight response. So in some situations it is our responsibility to be of service and helpful. The stress response also helps one cope with challenges and maintain focus. Although stress can be beneficial, beyond a certain point, stress stops being helpful and begins to cause major damage to health, mood, productivity, relationships, and quality of a person's overall life (www.helpg...... middle of paper ...... The Book of Stress Surivial. Fireside; 5th edition January 15, 1987. Perkins, Cynthia. “Holistic Mental Health.” The Little Book of Stress Relief. Key Porter Books; original edition, May 5, 2009. Romito, Kathleen. “Stress Management – ​​Effects of Stress.” NO.1 HEALTH PROBLEM” www.stress.org. 2010. January 5, 2011..Schiraldi, Glenn. McGraw-Hill Sourcebook January 1, 2000. Smith, Melinda » www.helpguide.org.. 2011..